A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of a female client who is about to undergo knee arthroplasty. Which of the following data collection findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL
WBC count 20,000/mm3
Potassium 3.8 mEq/L
Hematocrit 40%
The Correct Answer is B
a. Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL: This creatinine level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty.
b. WBC count 20,000/mm3: An elevated white blood cell count suggests the presence of
infection or inflammation. In the context of knee arthroplasty, infection is a significant concern and requires immediate attention to prevent complications.
c. Potassium 3.8 mEq/L: This potassium level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty.
d. Hematocrit 40%: This hematocrit level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty. The elevated WBC count takes precedence as it suggests a
potential infectious process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a. Hypoglycemia: Hypokalemia is not typically associated with hypoglycemia.
b. Hyperreflexia: Hypokalemia can lead to decreased reflexes, not hyperreflexia.
c. Cardiac dysrhythmias: Hypokalemia can cause disturbances in cardiac conduction, potentially leading to dysrhythmias.
d. Increased appetite: Increased appetite is not a common manifestation of hypokalemia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale for A: Taking enteric-coated pills with meals is generally acceptable as food does not affect the integrity of the enteric coating. The coating is designed to withstand the acidic environment of the stomach and dissolve in the more neutral pH of the intestine.
Rationale for B: Enteric-coated tablets should not be crushed as this destroys the coating designed to protect the stomach lining from the medication's potentially irritating effects, ensuring the medication is released in the intestine.
Rationale for C: This statement is correct; enteric-coated medications are formulated to bypass the stomach and dissolve in the intestine, which can help minimize gastric side effects and irritation.
Rationale for D: It is common for anti-inflammatory medications like naproxen to take several weeks to reach full efficacy. This statement reflects a correct understanding of the medication's expected onset of action.
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